First People of the Land

Long before your town was built, groups of people called Indigenous tribes lived on the land. 'Indigenous' means the people who were here first! These tribes, like the Lenape, Wampanoag, or Cherokee, lived in harmony with nature. They didn't just live on the land; they were the land's first protectors. They used the trees for homes, the rivers for travel, and the soil for food. Every region has its own special tribe with its own name and language. Even though many things have changed over the last $400$ to $500$ years, these tribes are still an important part of our world today.

Native American tribes have many beautiful traditions. A tradition is a special way of doing something that is passed down from parents to children. One of the most important traditions is Oral History. Instead of writing everything in books, elders told stories to teach children about their history, how to be kind, and how to respect animals. They also created amazing art, like weaving baskets from grass or making clothes decorated with colorful beads. These customs were not just for fun; they were ways to keep their culture strong and healthy.

Native American history isn't just in the past—it is happening right now! Many people in your community may be members of a local tribe. Today, Indigenous people work as doctors, teachers, and artists. They celebrate their culture at events called Powwows, where they dance, wear traditional clothing, and play drums. You can also see their influence in the names of our cities, rivers, and states. For example, the name 'Mississippi' comes from an Indigenous word meaning 'Great River.' We honor them by learning their true stories and protecting the environment just like they did.